7 tips for getting the best seats on airplanes

Getting a good seat on an airplane can make a huge difference in your travel experience—whether you’re looking for extra legroom, a quieter ride, or simply avoiding the dreaded middle seat.

With a bit of planning and a few smart strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a better spot on the plane.

Here are seven practical tips to help you get the best possible seat on your next flight:
1. Book as early as possible

Airlines typically release seat maps when tickets go on sale, so the earlier you book, the more options you’ll have. This is especially important if you’re flying economy and want specific seats like aisle, window, or bulkhead. For popular routes or busy travel seasons, booking months in advance can make a significant difference.
2. Use seat selection tools and reviews

Before choosing a seat, consult websites like SeatGuru, SeatLink, or ExpertFlyer. These platforms show seat maps tailored to the specific aircraft you’re flying on, along with reviews from other travelers. You can find out which seats don’t recline, are near noisy areas (like galleys or lavatories), or offer extra legroom.
3. Choose your seat during the booking process

Many travelers skip the seat selection process or go with whatever the airline assigns automatically. Don’t do this if you care about your seat quality. Always choose a seat manually during booking, even if it costs a little extra. For budget airlines or basic economy fares, this may be your only chance to avoid a middle seat.
4. Understand seat location benefits

Front of the plane: Quieter and quicker to deplane. Ideal for business travelers or short layovers.

Over the wing: Offers the smoothest ride due to its proximity to the aircraft’s center of gravity. Good for those who dislike turbulence.

Exit rows: More legroom but often have fixed armrests and may not recline. Sometimes children aren’t allowed here.

Bulkhead seats: Extra legroom, but you might be near bassinets or galley noise.

Rear of the plane: Often emptier and can be good for getting a whole row, though it’s usually last to deplane.

5. Revisit the seat Map 24-48 hours before departure

As the flight date approaches, airlines often release previously blocked seats. These might include extra-legroom rows, preferred seating, or even empty rows due to flight changes. Log in to your booking and check the seat map again during online check-in or shortly before it opens.
6. Leverage airline status or credit card perks

Frequent flyer status, even at the lower tiers, can give you access to preferred or extra-legroom seats at no extra cost. Similarly, airline-branded credit cards often come with perks like free seat selection, priority boarding, or automatic upgrades. If you travel often, these benefits can quickly add up to better seating experiences.
7. Politely ask at the airport

Gate agents and check-in staff have more flexibility closer to departure time. If the flight isn’t full, they may be able to move you to a better seat. You can ask to be moved to an empty row, a bulkhead, or even inquire about paid upgrades that may be discounted at the last minute. Kindness and patience often go a long way here.